Investigating how protein changes affect brain health in sickle cell disease
Official title: Protein arginine methyltransferase-mediated vascular dementia in sickle cell disease
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-11056649 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how sickle cell disease might be linked to memory and thinking problems, like those seen in vascular dementia, and it hopes to find new ways to help people with these conditions by understanding how certain proteins affect brain health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $1,872,414 |
| NIH project number | 7RF1NS132291-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11056649 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with sickle cell disease, particularly those experiencing cognitive difficulties.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without sickle cell disease or those who do not exhibit cognitive impairments related to their condition may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the relationship between sickle cell disease and vascular dementia, particularly how protein arginine methyltransferases may influence brain health. Patients with sickle cell disease often experience reduced blood flow to the brain, leading to cognitive issues similar to those seen in vascular dementia. The study aims to explore the underlying mechanisms that connect these conditions, potentially identifying new targets for treatment. By examining the similarities between sickle cell disease and Alzheimer's disease, the research seeks to uncover common pathways that could inform future therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve cognitive function and quality of life for patients with sickle cell disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the cognitive impacts of sickle cell disease, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lin, Hung Wen (Kevin) — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Lin, Hung Wen (Kevin)
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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A protein linked to blood-flow-related memory loss in sickle cell disease
This project looks at whether a protein called protein arginine methyltransferase (PRMT) causes blood-flow problems that lead to thinking and memory troubles in people with sickle cell disease.
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This work looks at whether blocking an artery-cell channel called Panx1 can help older men and women have less brain damage and dementia after an ischemic stroke.
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How blood vessel problems contribute to dementia
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.